Which work-related task would you leave for last? Why?
This question will help your interviewer evaluate how you multitask, prioritize, and adapt at work. It also could indicate whether you exhibit integrity while conducting your work. Some utilize a systems approach to their work, always prioritizing the needs of the team, and some leave the tasks they least prefer for last out of procrastination. Assure them you'll be mindful while exercising strong time management and project management skills.
"I try to leave the small, simple tasks for last. I do this to ensure that the more complicated parts of my projects are taken care of right away. This way, nothing comes back to bite me later on as the deadline approaches."
"I'd leave my documentation tasks for last. I say this because I like to ensure I hit all my targets first. I feel anything to do with documentation takes away from the tasks at hand. I understand the importance of it, though, especially when it must happen promptly to ensure accuracy. But I suppose it all boils down to the task that is the least pressing overall."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
Tieing an eth to one of our modules, because it doesn't need much of attention finishing that job, and even if you forget to tie a cable, you can find out with naked eye.
Rachelle's Feedback
It sounds like you prefer tasks that offer a challenge! Try mentioning this more clearly in your response. I have added an example, below. One thing to keep it mind is that these very specific examples about your equipment and tasks are good, but only if the interviewer completely understands your role and if the potential new job is in the same industry. For instance, a human resources associate may not know what you are talking about when you mention modules, tying cables, etc. This is why I left you a more interview friendly example for the times when your interviewer is not an engineer.
"In my current role, I usually leave the straightforward tasks for last, as I prefer tackling the challenging jobs first. For instance, tying cables and double checking them is very simple, so I will do that at the end of the day."
Anonymous Answer
I always leave my documentation for last, I find it cathartic to go through the results of my work at the end of the day. This leaves me to be fully focused on hitting all my targets and making the biggest impact I can on my workload.
Marcie's Feedback
Nice! When you say documentation, what exactly do you mean by that? Do you also plan out your to-dos and goals for the following day?
Anonymous Answer
When I have a long task list, I like to sort them by deadline, urgency, and difficulty. The tasks that have a deadline or are more urgent in nature, I like to finish first. This ensures they are done on time and efficiently. The smaller, less difficult tasks that don't have a defined deadline will be completed after.
Jaymie's Feedback
Great! Your response shows your ability to prioritize and time manage.
Anonymous Answer
I would first create a list of the tasks based on importance and urgency. Things like cleaning would be at the bottom of the list.
Marcie's Feedback
Why would cleaning be at the bottom? Is it the least important and least urgent?
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